Study Guide: "What If... I Made the World a Better Place?"

Text: Deuteronomy 34:1-12

OPEN:

When I preach a funeral, I often find myself trying to answer the question, "What mark has this life made?" When I think of my own, I ask the question: "What am I doing to insure that when I depart the world is in better shape than it was when I arrived?"

To make the world a better place -- this should be the goal of every believer. Often we're accused of being so heavenly minded that we're no earthly good, but to tell you the truth, I don't see that. In fact, those who have an eternal perspective on life are more apt to be devoted to making a difference here and now. I like what CS Lewis said:

"If you read history you will find that the Christians who did most for the present world were precisely those who thought most of the next. It is since Christians have largely ceased to think of the other world that they have become so ineffective in this."

It is possible to create a life for ourselves that makes a difference for others now and forever.

I. THE OPPOSITE OF LIVING TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IS LIVING FOR YOURSELF.

The opposite of living to make a difference is living for yourself -- and when you do this, you end up making yourself and everyone around you unhappy.

1. When you live for yourself, it's hard on everyone else. 

The problem is that you won't care while everyone else around you does.

2. What ultimately happens is that you end up alone. 

Living for yourself leads to isolation.

3. Living for yourself leads to missed opportunities. 

When I talked about organizing your life, I talked about how lack of proper time management can cause you to miss out on opportunities. When you multiply this over the course of a lifetime, it adds to much more than just missing a good chance here and there; it adds up to a life that never reaches its potential.

The flip side of this is that when you live to make a difference you will reach your potential; you will experience deeper, fuller relationships; and you will make the world a better place.

II. YOU CAN MAKE THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE.

Today we read from the last chapter of the book of Deuteronomy. It talks about the death of Moses. If anyone lived to make a difference, it was Moses. And look at the difference he made. He compiled and wrote the first five books of the Old Testament, he led the people of Israel out of Egyptian bondage, he established God's law and God's covenant with God's people, and he is a central figure in the world's three dominant religions. Deuteronomy 34 tells us about his death and what happens next. In this chapter we can learn some things about living to make a difference. There are three things I want you to see. The first is a rather sobering truth. I want you to see that when your time comes...

1. You will be mourned when you're gone, but not forever.

And this is how should be. Listen to what was written about Moses.

(v. 7-8) Moses was a hundred and twenty years old when he died, yet his eyes were not weak nor his strength gone. The Israelites grieved for Moses in the plains of Moab thirty days, until the time of weeping and mourning was over.

No matter who it is that is gone, life goes on. Even when it's one of the greatest leaders of all time, one of the greatest men who ever walked the planet, life goes on. And that's the way it should be.

Now, I'm not trying to depress you. I'm trying to impress upon you a simple and sobering truth. You will be mourned for awhile no matter who you are. How much and for how long you are missed will be determined by the kind of life you build for yourself.

2. Devote yourself to a vision that will outlive you.

Right before Moses died, the Bible says that...

(v. 1-4) Moses climbed Mount Nebo from the plains of Moab to the top of Pisgah, across from Jericho. There the Lord showed him the whole land-from Gilead to Dan, all of Naphtali, the territory of Ephraim and Manasseh, all the land of Judah as far as the Mediterranean Sea, the Negev and the whole region from the Valley of Jericho, the City of Palms, as far as Zoar. Then the Lord said to him, "This is the land I promised on oath to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob when I said, 'I will give it to your descendants.' I have let you see it with your eyes, but you will not cross over into it."

Why was Moses not allowed to enter the promised land? It goes back to a failure of leadership in his life. To be exact, a failure in obedience.

In Numbers 20 Moses was dealing with the complaints of the people of Israel. They were unhappy because they had no water. Once before God had told Moses to strike a rock with his staff and water would come out of the rock. This time God told Moses to speak to the rock. What did Moses do? He struck the rock with his staff twice, and water came out. He also took credit for it, saying, "Must we bring water out of this rock?" And then God told him...

Because you did not trust in me enough to honor me as holy in the sight of the Israelites, you will not bring this community into the land I give them. (Numbers 20:12)

This may seem like a harsh judgment, but it's the judgment God chose. And it brings us to another sobering truth. Your failures and your mistakes will limit what you can accomplish in life. There is not a person in this world who cannot look back on their life and see where they could have done more and they could have done better. "If only I had greater faith. If only I had been more obedient. If only I had been more committed. If only I had worked harder. If only I had taken more chances." It happened to Moses. It happened to David, too. He wasn't allowed to build the temple because he had been such a man of war. If it happened to these great men, it will happen to each one of us. Our failures and mistakes will limit what we are able to accomplish. There is a sense in which we will always see more than we hold, more than we touch. That's why it is crucial that you devote to a vision greater than you, to a vision that will outlast you.

Moses' leadership wasn't based on him. It was based on the vision that God had for his people. Even without Moses in leadership, the people were able to get to where God wanted them to go. It wasn't a case of, "If Moses can't enter the promised land, nobody can either, because we can't do anything without Moses." And yet, that's how many people organize their area of leadership -- in such a way that it can't survive without them.

Here's what I'm getting at. If you want to live to make a difference, you need to devote yourself to something that is bigger than you. Something that can outlive you and outlast you.

3. Invest in building those who will come after you.

(v. 9) Now Joshua son of Nun was filled with the spirit of wisdom because Moses had laid his hands on him. So the Israelites listened to him and did what the Lord had commanded Moses.

Among the most important work that Moses did in his entire life was that he prepared Joshua to take his place. In the same way, among the most important work that you do in your life will be the work you do building others. God's plan for his people is that we build up one another.

Paul said to Timothy...

And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others. (2 Timothy 2:2)

This is God's method. We are to pass leadership along. Like relay runners pass the baton to the next runner in the race, we are to pass on our knowledge and skill to others, and we are to give them our blessing as they move forward.

The truth is that you will accomplish more through the people who come after you than you will accomplish through your own efforts ... so devote your life to building others.

As a parent, as a coach, as a teacher, as a boss, your job is to help those you lead accomplish more than you accomplish. If you want to live to make a difference, invest your life in building people.

CLOSE:

It is possible to create a life for ourselves that makes a difference for others now and forever.

Do you want to make the world a better place? When your time comes, and you leave this world behind, life will go on. It's the cold sobering truth. Your greatest impact will be felt in what you accomplish through others. So I encourage you to ask yourself three questions.

• Am I living for something bigger than me?

• Am I inspiring others to keep moving toward greater things?

• Am I investing my life in building people?

(Dr. Dane Fowlkes)

Study Guide: "What If... I Organize My Life?"

Text: Ephesians 5:15-20

OPEN:

We're continuing our series called "What If?" It's about exploring the possibilities of making significant changes in key areas of your life. We've talked about forgiving others, changing your thoughts, changing the way you talk, getting rid of worry ... and today we'll talk about taking control of your life, which means taking control of your time. The Bible challenges us to do this. In the book of Ephesians, Paul wrote...

"Be careful then how you live, not as unwise people but as wise, making the most of the time, because the days are evil. So do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is." Ephesians 5:15-17

We're talking today about organizing your life so that you spend most of your time doing what matters the most to God, which should be what matters most to you.

All of us, no doubt, have a lot to learn about how to better organize our lives and how to better manage our time.

I.  DISORGANIZED PEOPLE ARE UNWISE PEOPLE.

"not as unwise people but as wise.... So do not be foolish."

When you don't take full control of your schedule, you are living unwisely and creating unnecessary problems for yourself:

1. Wasting time is wasting life. 

Your life consists of individual days divided into hours and minutes, and when you spend those hours and minutes doing the wrong things, your life takes the wrong direction. If you lose money on an investment you can earn it back later, but you can never get back wasted time.

2. Wasting time causes you to miss opportunities. 

3. Wasting time leads to regrets. 

It causes us to look back on our lives and realize that we could have made a deeper impact, become a better person, leave a greater mark.

II. DISCIPLINED PEOPLE ORDER THEIR USE OF TIME AROUND GOD'S WILL.

"So do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is."

Allow me to offer four steps toward the rightly managing your time/ organizing your life. 

First of all...

1. Build Godly Routines Into Your Life.

A routine is not the same thing as a rut.

You don't have to create a regimen for every minute of the day, but it is a good idea to begin developing habits of behavior that enable you to move in the direction of God's heart.

"In the morning, O LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation." Psalm 5:3

The more we build godly routines into our daily lives, the better use we make of the hours and minutes God has given us.

Here's a second thing that will help you make better use of your time...

2. Give the Best Things Your Best Time.

Psalm 90 is one of the Psalms attributed to Moses. In this psalm he talks a lot about the brevity of life. Then in verse 12 he says ...

"Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." Psalm 90:12

He's not asking that God will tell him how many days he will live. He's asking that God will give him an understanding of how to best use the limited number of days he has. He is asking the same thing that Paul told us to do: Make the best use of your time. And that means give the best things your best time.

- Is your family important to you? Then don't give them your leftover time. 

- Is having a dynamic walk with Christ important to you? Then don't wait to pray and read your Bible until you're too sleepy to concentrate. 

- Do you have an important project to finish that requires your full concentration? Then don't schedule it for a time when you know you'll be hounded by distractions. 

- Remember our learning about spiritual gifts. Advanced stages of leadership come as a person weakens their grip on things outside their gift mix, and focus their attention in areas of their giftedness.

Give the best things your best time.

Here's a third thing that will help you put Paul's words into practice...

3. Choose a Better Way to Waste Time.

The fact is that we are going to "waste time" at various times of the day. We are going to be less than 100% productive at various times of the day. How you choose to "waste time" -- and I'm using quotation marks here -- makes a big difference in how your life develops.

Spend your "down time" with someone else and see it as an opportunity to strengthen that relationship -- spouse, child, grandchild, friend, coworker, etc.

"Wasting" time with someone you care about is never a waste of time.

Another good way to "waste time" is doing something that causes you to be physically active--adding years to your life and enhancing the quality of your life.

4. Make Sure that What You Do Takes You Nearer the Heart of God than Away From It.

This is the most important component of a well organized life.

There are certain things I won't read, certain shows I won't watch, certain places I won't go, certain people I refuse to be around, because to do so would draw me away from the heart of God.

Here's your litmus test: Whatever you do, do all to the glory of Christ.

CLOSE:

God evidently takes seriously organizing our lives in such a way that we spend most of our time doing what matters the most to Him, which should be what matters most to us.

The way you do this is to:

1. Start building godly routines in your daily life, so that you can make sure the most important things are covered everyday. 

2. Set priorities for your to do list, so that the best things are done at the best time. 

3. Make an effort to use the idle moments of your day in such a way that they strengthen important relationships and enhance the quality of life.

4. Be intentional about allowing into your use of time only that which draws you nearer the heart of God.

What if you were to do this? What if you were to organize your time in such a way that each day takes in the direction God has given you? What would happen? Instead of looking back on your life and saying, "I could have been somebody," you'll be able to look back and say, "God, thank you for all that you've enabled to accomplish with my life. It's all for your glory."

(Dr. Dane Fowlkes)

Study Guide: "What If... I Watch What I Say?"

Text: James 3:1-12

OPEN:

Today, as we continue our series called What If? we'll ask the question: "What If... I Watch What I Say?" Each week, as I begin preparing these messages, I think, "This is the most difficult of them all." Well, when it comes to today's topic being a tough one to master, we have Biblical support for the idea. The book of James says...

...but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. (James 3:8)

You can't fully tame the tongue like you are domesticating a wild animal, but you can learn to control it, and you can learn how to use to experience God's blessings and his power in your life. In fact, it's necessary in the Christian life. James said that though it is impossible to tame the tongue, we are to learn to keep a tight rein on it. His exact words were...

Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless. (James 1:26)

So learning to control the tongue is not an optional pursuit for the Christian. It's a requirement for all of us, and it's a discipline that God takes seriously.

I. THE WAY WE COMMUNICATE CAN CAUSE MANY PROBLEMS.

Please note that I insert the word "communicate" in place of "speak." There was no email or social media when Jesus addressed the issue of the tongue.  His emphasis is not on the act of speaking, but on the words we use to communicate.

It's not difficult to see the problems caused by the wrong use of words. You don't have to look far. More than likely, only as far as your closest relationships, because this is the biggest problem caused by words.

1. Wrong words can destroy relationships.

2. Wrong words can make a bad situation worse. 

Whenever you continue to speak negative words into a negative situation, you tend to fan the flame of negativity until it gets out of control.

II. WORDS HOLD GREAT POSITIVE POTENTIAL.

However, if you are willing to take control of your words, you can begin to create changes in your life.

1. You'll become a better person. 

Here's a principle we need to keep in mind: "Change your words and you'll change yourself." 

James said...

We all make many mistakes, but those who control their tongues can also control themselves in every other way. (James 3:2)

A key to overcoming bad habits is to start with your tongue, start with the words you say.

2. You'll build others up. 

Another advantage of taking control of your words is that right words can minister to others. They strengthen others and build them up. Paul tells us in Ephesians...

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. (Ephesians 4:29)

Your words have the power to tear people down, or the power to build people up. Your words have the power to make people want to quit, or to encourage them to try one more time. It depends on how you use them.

Strengthening. Encouragement. Instruction. And comfort. This should be the goal of every conversation, every email, every Facebook post, every Tweet.

3. You'll give glory to God. 

Another advantage of taking control of your words is that you give glory to God. David said...

My lips will glorify you. (Psalm 63:3)

One of the reasons we are put on this earth is to glorify God with our words. Yes, we are also called to glorify God with our actions ... but we must remember that God puts a high price tag on the things we say. He wants to hear our praise. And just like couples need to remind one another of their love, just like friends need to express appreciation to one another, God wants to hear from his people words of praise and thanksgiving and expressions of love.

III. PRACTICE THE JESUS FILTER.

Here are four practical steps towards taking control of your words...

1. Don't say everything you know.

You may know something about someone, but just because you know it, and just because it's true, doesn't mean you have to say it. If what you say does not build up others and bring glory to the name of Christ, then you're better off keeping your mouth shut. Solomon said...

A man of knowledge uses words with restraint. Before you speak, consider saying nothing at all, because you don't have to say everything you know. (Proverbs 17:27)

2. Don't say everything you think.

Some people believe they know a little bit more about every subject than anyone else, and they believe it is their duty to wax eloquent whenever the chance presents itself. Whatever subject comes up in conversation, whether it's the stock market, computers, criminal justice, football, politics, or religion, they believe they have the first and final word on the matter. And, of course, they share it with you.

We can fall into this habit unintentionally, but we need to watch out for it.

We should think about what Solomon said...

Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent. (Proverbs 17:28)

You don't have to say everything you think. Before you speak, keep this principle in mind: Silence looks like knowledge. So, remember to think first, speak second. Thirdly...

3. Don't repeat everything you hear.

The problem with repeating gossip is that there is a better than even chance that what you heard isn't completely true. Gossip tends to get embellished as it is passed from person to person. The subject of gossip is one that we do not take seriously enough. We say things like, "I'm going to go visit 'so and so' and catch up on the latest gossip." We say it like there's nothing wrong with doing that.

To a certain extent, 'catching up on gossip' is just a figure of speech, but it's all too often all too accurate of the way we make conversation. We need to begin to take gossip seriously. Do you know what Proverbs says about gossip?

A perverse man stirs up dissension, and a gossip separates close friends. (Proverbs 16:28)

That's something new to think about. Did it ever occur to you that when you talk bad about someone, God considers your actions perverted? It may seem hard to believe, but that is what the Bible says.

Solomon said...

He who covers an offense promotes love, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends. (Proverbs 17:9)

Repeating everything you hear destroys friendships. This is why you need to think before you speak, and consider whether you should say anything at all. You don't have to repeat everything you hear.

4. Communicate as though Jesus is listening (He is). That is using the Jesus Filter.

CLOSE:

These four steps will get you started in taking control of your words. And when you take control of your words, you are able to take control of other areas of your life. As James said...

We all make many mistakes, but those who control their tongues can also control themselves in every other way. (James 3:2)

This week, try putting these four steps into practice:

1. Don't say everything you know, 

2. Don't say everything you think, 

3. Don't repeat everything you hear. 

4. Communicate as though Jesus is listening.

Just like changing your thoughts can change your world, changing your words can change yourself.

(Dr. Dane Fowlkes)

Study Guide: "What If... I Wouldn't Worry?"

Text: Matthew 6:19-34

OPEN: 

We're in the third week of our series called "What If?" The purpose of the series is to explore the possibility of abandoning some bad habits and picking up some good habits, of abandoning some bad ideas and adopting good ideas, so that our lives can become more effective, more productive, and more satisfying.

Last week we looked at what I referred to as the most difficult of the adaptations -- changing the way one thinks. This week we'll look at the most futile of human tendencies: the habit of worry. These two topics, taking control of your thoughts and getting over the worry habit, are closely connected.

Worry is a damaging choice that reveals a heart problem, but it may be overcome with prayerful action.

I. WORRY PREVENTS US FROM RECOGNIZING GOD'S GOODNESS.

1. Worry causes health problems. 

When you begin to take a look at worry, you see that it causes nothing but trouble in your life. 

The Old English word from which we get the word worry originally meant "to choke." Worry has a choking quality about it, doesn't it? In fact it causes all kinds of health problems. It leads to greater anxiety; it leads to sleeplessness; it leads to a loss of appetite; or even worse for some people, it leads to overeating; it leads to headaches, acid reflux, high blood pressure, ulcers, even respiratory problems.

2. Worry keeps you from enjoying the moment. 

To use a cliché, worry doesn't just remove years from your life, it removes the life from your years. 

It prevents you from getting the most out of today. Have you ever found yourself in a beautiful setting, where the sun is shining and the sky is clear and the air is fresh and life is filled with beautiful colors, and it's almost a perfect moment -- but you can't enjoy it because you're obsessed with some potential problem? I've been there more times than I can count. And I thought: Wouldn't it be nice if I didn't have this problem to deal with?

3. Worst of all, worry is a sin. 

Worry stems from a lack of faith, and anything that is not of faith, the Bible says, is a sin. 

When we worry, we're saying, in effect, "God, this problem is bigger than you. And I don't believe I can count on you to get me through it." That's a sinful attitude. 

II. RIDDING OURSELVES OF WORRY BRINGS GOD BACK INTO FOCUS.

If you're willing to give up worry, your life will get better in a number of ways...

1. You'll learn to focus on what's important.

When we worry, we tend to over-emphasize the significance of less-than-significant things. Jesus said...

(v. 25) "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?"

Most of the things we worry about are trivial -- especially in comparison to the ultimate concerns of life and eternity.

2. You'll recognize the provision of God.

(v. 30) "If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you-you of little faith?"

Most of the things we worry about are trivial, and, in my experience, most of the things we worry about never come to pass. 

God comes through for us, because he is good and faithful. When you're willing to let go of worry, you can see more clearly how he provides for you in each and every situation.

III. ERADICATING WORRY REQUIRES COURAGEOUS ACTION.

So the question is, how do you learn to let go of worry? Today we'll look at three steps you can take to help you put worry in its place. First of all...

1. Check your priorities.

In Matthew 6 Jesus preached on the topic of worry. We read the passage earlier. It's interesting that before he talks about dealing with worry, he talks about dealing with priorities. He reminds us not lay up treasures for ourselves on earth, but instead to seek treasure in heaven. He reminds us that we can't serve two masters. We can't serve God and money. And he tells us...

(v. 34) "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."

Worry is a signal that something isn't right -- and it's usually related to our priorities. When we worry, it's because we're putting something ahead of God. That means that when you worry, sin is involved. When I get wrapped in worry, I begin by asking myself: What have I put ahead of God in this situation?

We worry about the things we're not sure of, so make the effort to rethink your priorities. Jesus said the most important thing in life is to "Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness..."

The second way to deal with worry is...

2. Check your prayer-life.

Just as worry is a signal that something isn't right, it's also a signal that we need to devote more time to prayer. In the book of Philippians, Paul said...

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." (Philippians 4:6)

Prayer has the power to remove worry and anxiety from your life -- when you give it a chance.

In my life I have noticed an inverse correlation between prayer and worry. How much I do of one determines how much I do of the other. If you want to get rid of worry, focus on praying more.

Here's the third thing you can do...

3. Check your practices.

Take the right action in the right direction.

"Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me-put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you." (Philippians 4:9)

The key phrase here is "put it into practice." Just as there is a correlation between worry and prayer, there is a correlation between worry and action. The more you do of one, the less you'll do of the other.

CLOSE:

Worry is a damaging choice that reveals a heart problem, but it may be overcome with prayerful action.

Worry is a signal that something isn't right. It's not part of God's plan for your life. He never promises us a life without rain or sorrow or struggles ... but he does promise you and me a life without worry.

So when worry creeps into your life, it's a signal that something isn't right. You could say that worry is a call to action. When you're worried, you know that it's time to make some changes.

Application:

Today I want you to think about one worry in your life. Choose one, and with this topic of worry in your mind, ask yourself some questions.

1. What are my priorities here? Am I seeking God first in this situation, or am I seeking me first? 

2. Have I prayed about this? Am I casting my worries on him in prayer, or am I giving the matter lip service and not really letting go of it?

3. Have I taken action in the direction of my worries?

(Dr. Dane Fowlkes)

Study Guide: "What If...I Changed My Mind?"

Text: 2 Corinthians 10:5

OPEN:

We're in week two of our series called "What If?" This series explores the possibilities of making personal change and choosing to live by the principle of scripture. Last week we asked, "What if... I forgave everyone?" and we saw that when you forgive others, you experience the fullness of God's forgiveness and you experience the fullness of God's peace.

Today we'll consider a different question, "What if I take control of my thoughts?" This is one of the toughest areas of spiritual discipline to master. None of the subjects we'll deal with for the new few weeks are easy, but this one ranks right up there at the top, along with learning how to control your tongue.

We're culturally and individually programmed to think certain ways about certain things, often without being aware of it. We think without thinking about what we're thinking about. If your natural tendency is to think negative/ critical thoughts, and you do nothing to curb that natural tendency, then your worldview and your life experience will be on the negative side.

"We take every thought captive to obey Christ" (2 Co 10:5).

Believers are expected to control their thought life because thinking leads to doing.

I. NEGATIVE THINKING CREATES PROBLEMS.

1. First, and most important, is that negative thinking robs you of a life of faith. 

It's difficult to live with an attitude that says, "God is bigger than my problems," when you approach every problem thinking, "Well, this ruins everything." It's difficult to live with the attitude that says, "I am blessed and highly favored of God," when every time a little inconvenience comes along you say, "Well, isn't this typical?"

2. Another problem is that negative thinking leads to inactivity. 

It leads to a "what's-the-use?" mentality. It causes us to think, "Why bother trying? Nothing works out anyway...Why go on a diet? I'll starve myself for a few weeks, then I'll give up and I'll be right back where I was, and all that suffering will be pointless...Why should I bother trying to strengthen my marriage? My spouse doesn't appreciate anything I do. I'll just give and give and give and get back nothing in return. Why bother?" When you give in to the natural tendency to think negatively, it's easier to give in to the temptation to do nothing.

3. Because of this, negative thinking often causes isolation in relationships. 

It causes us to focus on what's wrong in the relationship, and it tricks us into the thinking that nothing can be done about it. Also, seeing only the faults in others prevents you from seeing their good qualities, which prevents you from enjoying the fullness of the relationship.

II. POSITIVE THINKING BRINGS OBVIOUS BENEFITS.

If you are willing to do the hard work of taking control of your thought life, it will make a big difference in your life. What kind of difference?

1. You will be happier. 

It doesn't take a degree in brain chemistry to know that the person who thinks positive, uplifting thoughts will be happier than the person who thinks bleak and negative thoughts.

2. You will develop a more accurate view of the world. 

The purpose of positive thinking is not to look at the world through rose-colored glasses, but to look at the world through clear glasses, so you can see what's really there. 

Positive thinking is action-oriented thinking. It is solution-oriented thinking.

3. You will become more productive. 

Instead of thinking, "What's the use?" you'll begin thinking, "What do I need to do?"

When you take control of your thoughts you spend less time thinking about things that take you nowhere. You spend less time reliving the past and revisiting regrets. You spend less time thinking about what could have been, and you spend more time thinking about what can be.

If you will make the effort to take control of your thought life, it will improve your emotional state, your spiritual life, your relationships, and even your ability to do your job.

III. HOW DO I TAKE EVERY THOUGHT CAPTIVE?

So the question is, how do you do it? How do you take control of your thought life? Today we'll look at three steps you can take...

1. Think on Purpose.

Start thinking about what you think about. 

Paul said that "we take every thought captive to obey Christ" (2 Co 10:5). 

When Paul says this, he's talking about the influence the world has on our belief systems and our most basic ideas about life. The world teaches one philosophy and the Bible teaches another -- we need to make sure our thinking is aligned with the Biblical model.

2. Think with a filter.

A filter captures impurities and only allows the pure liquid to pass through.

In the same way, Paul suggests that we use a filter for our thoughts. In Philippians 4 he tells us...

"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things."(Philippians 4:8)

It's a good idea to memorize this list. There are eight things here; it's an easy list to memorize. As you think about what you think about, run your thoughts through these filters: Is it true? Is it noble? Is it right? Is it pure? Is it lovely? Is it admirable? Is it excellent or praiseworthy? In other words: Is this thought worthy of my time? If so, give it your full attention.

3. Think in the direction of Change

Paul writes, "Be transformed by the renewing of your minds." (Romans 12:2) 

In Ephesians he says..."be made new in the attitude of your minds." (Ephesians 4:23)

Biblical Principle: Transformed behavior begins with a transformed thought life. 

The right attitude is to say, "God, I want to learn to think differently, because I want to learn to act differently, because I want to be a different person.

CLOSE:

Believers are expected to control their thought life because thinking leads to doing.

Taking control of your thought life is hard work. It's not a one-time event, it's a daily process. But the rewards are worth the effort. If you will learn to think like God has told us to think, you will experience transformation in all areas of your life.

(Dr. Dane Fowlkes)

Study Guide: "What If... I Forgave Everyone?"

Text: Matthew 18:15-35

OPEN:

Today we're staring a new series called "What If...?" This series explores how you can experience a more dynamic life through putting into practice some foundational Biblical principles, such as forgiving others, managing your time and finances, walking in faith, controlling your thoughts and speech, and living with purpose. These principles all fall within the realm of "possible" in that anyone can do them, but they also open the door to the realm of the impossible: Practicing these things day-in and day-out creates a life of miracles, and makes available a whole new world of options for you to pursue.

        

That's what this series is about: What If? It's about exploring new possibilities. Today we'll ask the question, "What If I Forgave Everyone?"

The more I have studied this subject the more I realize the tendency we have -- and by "we" I mean "me" -- to harbor unforgiveness. Here's something interesting. If you type unforgiveness into a word processor and you have spell check turned on, it will get underlined, because unforgiveness isn't really a word. But that doesn't stop us from using it and/or doing it. Many times we kid ourselves into thinking that we have forgiven others ... but we haven't quite let it go yet.

I. NOT FORGIVING CREATES problems for you.

Let me tell you something. If you hang on to unforgiveness, it will create problems for you. Emotional torment. Bitterness. Moodiness. Sleeplessness. It's been said that harboring unforgiveness is like drinking poison and hoping it will kill your enemies. That's because when you hang on to unforgiveness, it hurts you more than it hurts anyone else.

Some people think that refusing to forgive gives them some kind of leverage over the other person. Or by refusing to forgive to they can extend the punishment the other person receives. But who really gets punished in this situation? The unforgiver. He's the one who continues to carry the weight of offense.

her person, and it eats them up, and it keeps them awake at night, and it destroys their good mood ... meanwhile the person they can't forgive goes merrily on with their life, oblivious to it all. It does no good to hang on to unforgiveness. You may as well just drink poison.

II. FORGIVING IS GOOD FOR YOU.

However, if you're willing to put the principle of forgiveness into practice, you'll create a better life for yourself. How? First of all...

1. You'll experience peace. That gnawing sensation will go away. That unsettled sense of resentment and discontentment will disappear. It will be replaced by a sense of peace.

Corrie Ten Boom said, "Forgiveness is to set a prisoner free, and to realize the prisoner was you."

In Colossians 3 Paul tells us...

"Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another ..." (Colossians 3:13)

Then he goes on to say...

"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace." (Colossians 3:15)

There's a connection between forgiveness and peace. If there's no peace in your personal life, maybe it's because you have some unforgiveness in your heart. If there's no peace in your marriage or in your family, maybe it's because you're hanging on to past hurts and refusing to let go of yesterday's offenses. And if peace cannot reign in this church, it is no doubt for the same reason. We haven't fully forgiven one another. If you want peace to reign in your life, learn to forgive.

Another benefit you'll create is ...

2. You'll find it easier to forgive yourself. If you are a forgiving person, and are willing to extend mercy to others, it will be easier to extend mercy to yourself.

If you struggle with guilt and regret, then maybe you should take a look at your attitude toward those around you, and toward the people from your past. Have you forgiven those who need to be forgiven?

This brings me to the next benefit that I want you to see. When you practice the principle of forgiveness...

3. You will experience the fullness of forgiveness. Sometimes Jesus said things that were so simple, and so straightforward, and so direct, that it leaves you with only two choices: To take his words exactly as he said them, or to spend half an hour talking in theological circles to explain why this isn't what he really meant.

There's a good example of this in Luke 6. Jesus said as plain as day...

"Forgive and you will be forgiven." (Luke 6:37)

He also said it in the Lord's prayer:

Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who have trespassed against us. (Matthew 6:12)

When you accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, and you begin the journey of the Christian life, your sins are forgiven. That's because you have surrendered completely to the Lordship of Jesus. As you continue to walk in his forgiveness, God expects you to walk in forgiveness toward others. If you refuse to walk in forgiveness toward others, it will block the flow of forgiveness toward you. That's why Jesus stated emphatically: Forgive us as we forgive others.

There's a principle of reciprocity: you receive back what you give. That's why generous people always seem to have enough to get by, and often have more than enough. It's why people who are loving tend to be surrounded by people who love them. It's why people who are merciful to others find themselves on the receiving end of mercy when they need it -- as Jesus said: "Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy." (Matthew 5:7)

When you hang on to unforgiveness, you're not just drinking poison in your relationships, you're drinking poison in your spiritual life. You're cutting yourself away from a right standing with God. You're cutting yourself away from a life of blessing and peace and power. Conversely, when you live by the principle of forgiveness, you open the door in your life to all that God has for you.

III. HOW TO BEGIN FORGIVING.

And so the question is: How do I do it? How do I forgive? You and I both know that it is easier said than done. We tend to hang on to offenses for a long time. And the sad truth is that we tend to hang on to small offenses, while asking God to overlook our huge offenses.

Here are some things to remember in applying the principle of forgiveness:

1. You forgive as God has forgiven you.

These are the same words Paul used.

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. (Ephesians 4:32)

How has God forgiven you? Totally and completely. He forgives and, most importantly, he forgets. He says...

I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more. (Jeremiah 31:34)

Isaiah 38:17 says, "You have put all my sins behind your back." If something is behind your back, you can't see it anymore. That's the metaphor Isaiah is using. God forgives totally and completely, and he never revisits your sin again.

God forgives and forgets. He does not remember your sins. In the same way, you need to be willing to forget the sins of others.

Sometimes this takes effort. Forgiving and forgetting is an intentional choice you make. 

Understand that when you forgive someone, the objective is to let it go. The objective is to never bring it up again. Because that's how God in Christ has forgiven you.

Here's a second thing to remember about forgiveness.

2. You forgive only who you need to forgive.

What do I mean? I mean that I've met a lot of people who struggle with unforgiveness over things that really aren't any of their business.

This doesn't just apply to people who make headlines. It applies to people here at church. It applies to the people you work with. If there are two people in conflict, and you're not directly involved in the problem or the solution, then it's not your job to sit in judgment.

Jesus makes it very clear: If someone sins against you, (Matthew 18:15) then you need to deal with the offense and deal with forgiving them. But if someone gets caught up in a sin that doesn't involve you, then pray for that person, pray for those involved, pray that there will be restoration, and pray that God will work out the situation according to his will. But don't presume to be the forgiver in a situation that doesn't involve you. You will find yourself struggling with resentment, or you give in to the temptation to be self-righteous and smug, and it's all because you've tried to put yourself in a position in which you don't belong.

If you're struggling with unforgiveness, ask yourself: Does this situation involve me? Do I need to forgive, or do I, instead, need to pray for those involved, so that they can forgive one another as God would have them do?

Here's the third thing to help you work through unforgiveness.

3. You forgive face-to-face.

Jesus said ...

"If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you." (Matthew 18:15)

The simple truth is that most people in conflict never take this step. They talk to others, but they don't talk to each other. And the anger and the bitterness and the resentment grows because they refuse to deal with the situation one-on-one.

Jesus says that if talking one-on-one doesn't work, then you talk about it with a couple of others, and if that doesn't work, then you bring it before the church. Matthew 18 gives very specific instructions for dealing with conflict. Here's what I've noticed in thirty-plus years of ministry. The overwhelming majority of the time, when people meet face-to-face and discuss the matter one-on-one, the conflict gets resolved, and the relationship gets strengthened. The overwhelming majority of the time -- my estimate is way above ninety percent -- steps two and three aren't necessary. There's power in having the courage to sit down and look someone in the eye and say, "Can we resolve this today?" In my experience, this step is often all that is needed to start the process of forgiveness and reconciliation.

CLOSE:

What if you were to do this? What if you were to let go of the unforgiveness that so many people hang on to? What if you were to treat others as Jesus treats you, with mercy and compassion? What if you were to pray for reconciliation instead of standing in judgment? What if you were to meet face-to-face with those with whom you have conflict and seek resolution? What if you forgave everyone who has offended you in the past, and you let go of all the other resentments? Can you see how that would change your life? Can you see how it will make better relationships, how it will bring more peace into your life, how it will open the door to God's blessings?

Study Guide: "Whose Side Are You On?"

Text: Romans 6:1-23

OPEN:

In this mini-series we've looked at: "More Than You Thought You Were" (Romans 8:26-39), and "Make Up Your Mind" (Romans 8:1-17).

Today, we will talk about how to win the war on sin. This presupposes that we're in a battle. How many here today have experienced the struggle of trying to be holy, and bear the scars to prove it?

Some may think it's impossible to win this war, but it's not. In fact, there's a promise in the sixth chapter of Romans that we all need to claim. It's in verse 14: Sin shall not have dominion over you. 

God has promised us victory over sin. 

In Romans 6, Paul shows us how to claim and experience that victory. To win the war against sin, there are three steps to take. Here they are...

I. Understand the Meaning of Salvation.

1. Becoming a Christian isn't a matter of turning over a new leaf. It's a matter of beginning a new life. 

It's not just that we think differently, though we do. And it's not just that we act differently, though we will. It's that we ARE different. Our souls, which were empty and lifeless, have been made alive through the power of Christ. This is what Paul referred to when he said, (v. 4) For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives.

When you accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, God gave you a new life. He gave you a capacity for holiness you didn't have before. I want you to understand that Paul is not being allegorical, or metaphorical, or symbolic when he says you've been made alive in Christ. He's being as literal as he can be. Something supernatural happens at the moment of salvation. You are transferred from spiritual darkness to spiritual light, from spiritual death to spiritual life, and you now have potential to live a Godly life.

2. Because of God's gift of salvation, we have power over sin. We are, quite literally, dead to sin. That's how Paul phrased it. (v. 6-7) Our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ so that sin might lose its power in our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin. For when we died with Christ we were set free from the power of sin. He went on to say, (v. 11) So you should consider yourselves dead to sin and able to live for the glory of God through Jesus Christ.

The Christian life isn't based on a feeling or a hunch. It's based on facts--the fact of God's love for you, the fact of his Word, the fact of the resurrection. Regardless of your feelings or hunches, these facts don't change. So, when Paul tells us to "reckon" ourselves dead to sin, he's not suggesting we attempt to manufacture a certain feeling. He's telling us to consider it so, because God has already said it is so.

3. God made you dead to sin and alive to Christ. Accept it. Consider it so. 

Don't wait for a feeling to confirm it. And don't doubt God's Word simply because your behavior hasn't caught up with your faith. Believing in the power of God is a prerequisite to experiencing the power of God. So, believe it. Understand the meaning of salvation. A second thing that will help you win the battle is...

II. Do the Math on Sin and Righteousness.

1. When you think about it, sin is really stupid. Nothing good can come of it. 

It only wreaks havoc for those who entertain it. You'll never hear someone say, "The smartest thing I ever did was embezzle from my employer...or cheat on my income taxes...or have an affair...or experiment with cocaine...or criticize my friend behind his back" and on and on. That's because sin does nothing but destroy. Paul reminds us of this when he says...

(v. 16) You can choose sin, which leads to death, or you can choose to obey God and receive his approval. (v. 21) And what was the result [of committing sins]? It was not good, since now you are ashamed of the things you used to do, things that end in eternal doom. (v. 23) For the wages of sin is death.

In these verses, Paul mentions three things we need to remember about sin.

• It leads to death

• It leads to shame

• It brings about its own punishment

The best argument for avoiding sin is to do the math on sin. Nothing good can come of it. It leads only to misery.

2. On the other hand, what does righteousness lead to? Life. Joy. Peace. Holiness. Fellowship with God. 

Paul said, (v. 16) You can choose sin, which leads to death, or you can choose to obey God and receive his approval. He goes on to say, (v. 22) Now you do those things that lead to holiness and result in eternal life.

Sin can take you in only one direction. It leads to death, shame, and misery. 

Obedience to God, on the other hand, takes you in a different direction. It leads to life, joy, peace, holiness, and every good thing God wants to give you. It's a non-negotiable reality. So, get the right perspective on sin and righteousness. Do the math, then make your choice. 

A third thing that will help you win the battle against sin...

III. Choose the Master you will Obey.

Paul said, (v. 16) Don't you realize that whatever you choose to obey becomes your master? You can choose sin, which leads to death, or you can choose to obey God and receive his approval. 

This goes against the grain of the American ideal--we like to think we're rugged individualists serving only ourselves, but it's not true. Paul says that every action is an act of obedience--an act of slavery, so to speak--either to sin or to righteousness. With every action you're becoming more holy or less holy. 

1. We serve the one we obey. 

The question is, whose slave do you want to be? 

Paul said, (v. 17-18) Once you were slaves of sin, but now you have obeyed with all your heart the new teaching God has given you. Now you are free from sin, your old master, and you have become slaves to your new master, righteousness. 

This is what God wants you to be. A slave to righteousness--so resolutely committed to him that you cannot help but do what's right. He's your master, you're his slave; you have chosen to obey him and him alone. You don't have to be a slave to sin. Sometimes you may feel as though you are, but you don't have to be one. You can live a holy life. God made a promise, (v. 14) Sin is no longer your master, for you are no longer subject to the law, which enslaves you to sin. Instead, you are free by God's grace.

2. This verse is translated differently in other versions because in Greek, the word "master" is a future tense verb. 

It means literally, Sin shall not have dominion over you. It's a promise. Paul is saying, "You don't have to be controlled by sin. You can have victory. But you have to decide which master you will obey."

When you became a Christian, you switched teams. Your loyalties changed. You used to be a slave to sin, but you don't have to be any more. You now have a new master to serve. Paul said, (v. 20,22) In those days, when you were slaves of sin, you weren't concerned with doing what was right....but now you are free from the power of sin and have become slaves of God. Choose your master. Choose who you want to serve. It's either sin or righteousness; the devil or the Lord. The one you obey is your master. Who do you want your master to be?

CLOSE:

You have the capacity for holiness. That's what salvation means. You've been forgiven; you have a new life and a new master. If you continue to serve your old master, you will only experience shame and misery. But your new master offers you freedom, joy, peace and holiness. Choose your master. Whose side are you on?

(Dr. Dane Fowlkes)

Study Guide: "Make Up Your Mind"

Text: Romans 8:1-17

OPEN:

(v. 5) Those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit.

This is a powerful verse, but for years I completely missed its point. I finally discovered I was reading it wrong. I didn't see that part "B" of this phrase was the key to accomplishing part "A". I thought it was saying, "When you're controlled by the Spirit, then you'll be able to think that which pleases the Spirit." That's not what Paul is saying. He's saying, "In order to be controlled by the Spirit, first think about things that please the Spirit." It's the same as saying, "Those who are physically fit are those who exercise." Part B is the cause, part A is the effect. Do you want to be good? Do you want to live a Spirit-controlled life? Then learn to think about things that please the Spirit. Another translation says it this way... (v. 5) Those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires.

He mentions two benefits of this kind of thinking: 

(v. 6) To set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.

1) Life. 

Of course, he's talking about more than physical existence. He's talking about quality. Life with a capital 'L'. Life with an exclamation point! 

That's what God offers: Living that goes far beyond surviving, living that can best be described as thriving. It's life to the fullest. Jesus called it the abundant life. You receive it by allowing your mind to be controlled by the Holy Spirit.

2) Peace. 

It's the opposite of stress, the opposite of turmoil. 

When you make up your mind to be holy--when you set your mind on what the Spirit desires and allow him to influence your thoughts--you experience peace, even in the midst of stressful situations.

So the question is: What does the Spirit desire? What pleases him? What exactly am I supposed to think about? Romans 8 shows us three things that the Spirit wants for us. If you think on these things, you'll experience transformation--God guarantees it. First of all...

I. He Wants you to Experience Freedom from Guilt.

I'm referring to real guilt and imaginary guilt, because both are killers. God offers freedom from both. Paul said, (v. 1) Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.

Sin separates you from God. That's why you struggle with guilt. You've done things that are wrong. You knew it was wrong at the time, and you did it anyway. Welcome to the human race. Unfortunately, sin carries a huge price tag. Paul said, The wages of sin is death... (Romans 6:23)

1. Sin leads to guilt, shame and condemnation. But God doesn't want you to live the rest of your life with guilt, shame and condemnation. Contrary to what the world may think about Christianity, our goal is not to make people feel guilty. Our goal is to show people how they can be free from guilt forever. Though you've committed sins, the good news is that God will forgive your sins. Though you deserve judgment, the good news is that God has chosen not to condemn you. When you come to Christ, he sets you free from the law of judgment. You never have to fear his judgment again: (v. 1) Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.

2. Many struggle with guilt long after their sins have been forgiven, hanging on to the memory of sins that God has long-since forgotten. They say, "I don't deserve to be happy; I don't deserve to be blessed; I don't deserve to be forgiven." Of course, it's true. No one deserves to be forgiven...but we have been. The judgment we deserve has been lifted by the grace of God.

3. To become holy, think about the things which please the Spirit. Think about how God has set you free from the law of sin and death. How he sent his Son Jesus Christ into the world to die on the cross for your sins and mine, so that we could experience the fullness of life.

We have been set free from the law of sin and death. We need never live under condemnation again. Think about that; it pleases God. Secondly...

II. He Wants you to Experience Power Over Sin.

1. God created us to live with power. 

When Jesus told his disciples about the Holy Spirit, he said, "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you..." (Acts 1:8) This power isn't in ourselves, it's in him. It's his power, but it's available to you. Notice what Paul says, (v. 11) If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will give life to your mortal bodies also through his Spirit that dwells in you. 

He's saying "The same power that brought Jesus back from the dead can be yours." Think about it: if God's power can bring a dead man back to life, don't you think his power can help you overcome temptation? 

2. God wants you to experience power over sin, but you cannot do it on your own. You need his power to make it happen. Paul said, (v. 13) For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live.

"Deeds of the body" refers to more than just physical, or sexual, sins. It refers to all sins, including anger, jealousy, selfishness, pride, dishonesty, hatred, discord, and the rest. Paul says that these misdeeds--these sins--need to be put to death by the Holy Spirit. How? 

When sin rears its ugly head--or even when the temptation to sin presents itself--we can say, "Father, by your power you raised Christ from the dead. By your power, help me overcome this sin. Take it away, and take away my desire to sin." 

But there's good news. Even greater than the power of sin is the power of God's Spirit. The Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead gives life to your mortal body. He will give you victory over sin, no matter how many times it comes back to haunt you. You can't expect it to be easy, but you can expect to win. God wants you to experience victory, so look forward to it. Think about it. Set your mind on it. It's what the Spirit wants for you. Next...

III. He wants you to Experience the Benefits of Adoption.

(v. 15) For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received a spirit of adoption. 

1. Paul uses the term adoption because the term child of God doesn't accurately portray the level of relationship God wants with you. 

Adoption was a serious and sacred rite in Roman times involving elaborate ceremonies filled with symbolic gestures. It was not uncommon for an adult man to be adopted into a certain family for business or political reasons. For example, the Emperor Claudius adopted the full-grown Nero so that Nero could legally succeed him on the throne. 

Roman adoptions were irrevocable. Once adopted always adopted, you might say. The adopted child's old life was wiped out, including all debts and all rights as the child of the former father. The adopted child became, in every sense of the word, the full and complete heir of the adoptive father. There was no legal distinction between being a biological son and an adoptive son. A man's estate belonged equally to his biological children and his adopted children.

Those who have adopted children today understand this concept. The adopted child becomes your child with no strings attached.

2. You're not his slave or his hired hand, you're his child. 

Paul says, (v. 15) When we cry, 'Abba! Father!'

Abba was an intimate term that only a son or daughter would use. The word "Father" is a title; the word "Abba" is a name. A comparison today is the name "Dad." My best friend is a father, and I may refer to him as a father, but I don't call him "Dad" because he's not my father. God says, "Call me Dad. You're my child, my chosen child. All that I have belongs to you." Notice what Paul says, (v. 17) And if children, then heirs, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ--if, in fact, we suffer with him so that we may also be glorified with him.

3. God wants you to experience the benefits of being his son. 

He's not your taskmaster or your tyrant. He's your father. He chose you to be his child. This is what you need to think about. 

Paul said, (v. 16) It is that very Spirit bearing witness  with our spirit that we are children of God. 

To be holy you must set your mind on what the Spirit desires; he desires for you to know that you are God's chosen child. He doesn't want you to have an attitude of fear and slavery, he wants you bask in knowing that he is your loving father, your "Dad."

CLOSE:

Becoming good--becoming holy--is a matter of putting your mind where you want your life to be.  

Being holy is a matter of making up your mind to be holy. I'm not referring to a process of determination, I'm referring to a process of realization--realization of who you are in Christ. In Christ, your sins are forgiven. You are free from guilt and condemnation. In Christ, you have the power of the Holy Spirit to give you power over sin. In Christ, you have been adopted into God's family and you are his child, specially chosen by him. 

Do you know Him? Do you belong to Him? Are you living like a fully forgiven, freely loved child of God?

(Dr. Dane Fowlkes)

Study Guide: "More Than You Thought You Were"

Today we begin a three part series entitled: "Holiness: Mission Possible." For many, the idea of being good seems like mission impossible. But the Bible teaches Biblical principles that help us do more than become good--God designed each of us to be holy.

Title: "MORE THAN YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE"

Text: Romans 8:26-39

OPEN:

In the 8th chapter of Romans, Paul says, In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. (Romans 8:37) I love that phrase: "More than conquerors." In the Greek: hupernikao= a compound verb literally meaning to hyper-conquer, to conquer, as it were, with success to spare. It may be translated "overwhelmingly conquer."

It reminds me that God didn't create us to limp through life, getting knocked around by the devil, or our circumstances, or anything else. We're made to win--and not just by a narrow margin in the closing seconds of the game. We're made to win by a blowout. We're not mere conquerors, we're more than conquerors. For those trying to become holy, this is great news. Too often the battle against sin seems to be one we're destined to lose. The truth is, we lose only when we choose to lose--when we don't take advantage of the weapons God has provided for each of us.

Holiness begins in your mind: it's the result of what you believe about God, yourself, salvation, sin, and God's power in your life. The key to holiness is also found in controlling your thought life--setting your mind on what the Spirit desires. This week we'll see how the ability to overcome sin--to be more than a conqueror--is a matter of finding strength in God's goodness.

I have good news for you today: You are more than you thought you were.

God says you can be more than a conqueror. You can find strength in him, if you're willing to put his promises to work in your life. Today we'll look at three ways he helps you. These are things that you can't do for yourself--he does them for you. If you will rely on him, trusting in his goodness along the way, you will experience his power--you will be more than a conqueror in life. Here are the three things we need to keep in mind:

I. The Holy Spirit is Your Prayer Partner.

(v. 26) ...the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express.

Many times I haven't known what to pray for, or how to pray about a particular situation. There were days of discouragement when I didn't have the words to pray. During those times I could only yield to the Holy Spirit and allow him to pray for me.

This is what the Holy Spirit does. He talks to God the Father on your behalf. He prays for you. You may not know what to say, but he does. He always prays the right prayer for you; he always prays in accordance with God's will. As Paul said, (v. 27) And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will.

When you pray, remember that the Holy Spirit is praying with you. We don't always know how we ought to pray, but he does. And he intercedes for us according to the will of God.

Have you heard the saying, "Be careful what you ask for, because you just might get it." The only way you can believe that statement is if you don't believe in the goodness of God. A cruel, apathetic God might not stand in the way of you receiving some of your foolish requests--like a bad parent might give their kids cupcakes every time--but our God isn't like that.

When you ask for things that aren't good for you, or aren't in accordance with God's will for your life--the Holy Spirit searches your heart and intercedes on your behalf. You have an all-powerful, all-knowing prayer partner. In fact, not just one prayer partner, but two. Paul said... (v. 34) Christ Jesus who died--more than that, who was raised to life--is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.

This is an example of God's goodness towards you. Jesus prays for you. The Holy Spirit prays for you. You're a member of an Almighty prayer team. Remember this when you pray; it will help you become more than a conqueror. Secondly, keep in mind...

II. God is in Control of the Events of Your Life.

(v. 28) And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. 

If your heart is yielded to God, nothing bad can happen to you, ever. Period. Now, take note. I didn't say that nothing unpleasant can ever happen, or nothing irritating can ever happen, or nothing sad can ever happen. These things are a fact of life. But when they happen, God has promised to work them out for our good...for our benefit.

Don't you know someone who lost a job, only to find a better one? Don't you know someone (maybe yourself) whose heart was broken in a bad relationship, only later to find true love? I'm sure we've all seen the occasional negative experience turn into something positive. For believers, these experiences aren't just lucky coincidences. This is part and parcel of our everyday experience. God makes the events of your life work out for the best.

To benefit from this promise, you must trust in God's goodness. Otherwise, you'll fall apart every time things don't go according to plan. One minor setback will cause you to think that God has deserted you and the world is caving in on you. This isn't what God intended for you. He made you to live above your circumstances. He wants you to live with absolute, total, and complete confidence. That's why Paul said, (v. 31) If God is for us, who can be against us? No situation need get the best of you, because God is in control of the events in your life. Through him, you are more than a conqueror. But, to experience it, you must believe it. You must trust in God's goodness. Thirdly, keep in mind...

III. You are Surrounded by God's Inseparable Love.

(v. 35) Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?... (v. 37) No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. (v. 38) For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any power, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is Christ Jesus our Lord.

If you're tempted to think God no longer loves you, stop and ask yourself, "What caused me to think such a thing?" Was it a business failure or financial problems? Were you victimized by some cruel and hateful person? Was it a health problem, or the death of someone close to you? Was it the memory of a sin you committed long ago? Or a sin you committed yesterday? If it was a hardship, Paul says hardship can't separate you from God's love. If it was mistreatment, Paul says persecution can't separate you from God's love. Neither can sickness, poverty, crime or danger. Nothing in all creation--not even sin--can separate you from the love of God

There's strength in knowing God's love. When you focus on him, the fickleness of others becomes insignificant. He promised he'll always love you, but if you don't believe that promise, you'll miss out on the benefits. If you don't believe his promise, you'll be a slave to the opinions of others. But if you trust in God's goodness, if you rely with all your heart on his promise to love you forever--you can approach challenges with strength and security. If you want to be more than a conqueror, remember that nothing in the world can separate you from God's love.

CLOSE:

Do you want to become holy? Do you want to become good? Paul says, Be transformed the renewing of your mind. (Romans 12:2) The battle for holiness is fought and won in the mind. It's all about what you think, what you believe. When you believe the right things about God, you experience his power--the power to become good.

To become more than a conqueror, you must learn to trust in God's goodness. Believe his promises. When you pray, he prays with you. When hard times come your way, he works them out for your good. And when others turn their back on you, his love remains eternally faithful. Relying on these promises--that's what makes you more than a conqueror.

(Dr. Dane Fowlkes)

Study Guide: "Like Father, Like Son"

Text: Genesis 26:1-25

OPEN:

When I was growing up, occasionally my mother or my grandmother would say, "You're just like your dad." Sometimes it was intended as a compliment, since my dad stood 6'2", had a deep bass voice, could do anything he set his mind to do, and (when he wanted to be) quite charming. Then again, sometimes these words were spoken in exasperation because my dad had a knack for being, well, exasperating. And I inherited it (even though I was adopted).

I always liked to hear that I was like my dad, because I always looked up to him. Even years later, when I had a more grown-up understanding of him, and realized that he had some flaws that I didn't want to emulate, I still liked the idea that I might possess his best qualities.

Today is Father's Day. I want to speak to us about the responsibility that God has placed on you. 

A father's job is to develop character in the lives of his children. Fathers, here's the catch. You will do this without even trying. You will develop character – or be a primary influence in the character development – of your children; the question is, what kind of character will they have?

Today we'll look at a father and son relationship in the Bible. It's one of the oldest: Abraham and Isaac. Abraham was a great man, he did many great things, God used him in a great way. But Abraham wasn't perfect. Far from it. And yet, he was God's man. Today we'll look at some events in Isaac's life that show us a father's influence. Dads, I encourage you to think about these things as you raise your children.

Now, the backstory is that Abraham was chosen by God when he was a young man. Fast forward a few years. Abraham has passed away. Isaac is now a grown man. We'll take up his story in Genesis 26. There are three events in this chapter that will help fathers pass on good qualities to their children. I've titled today's message Like Father Like Son because we're looking at Abraham and Isaac. Clearly, these principles apply to your sons and your daughters. Here are the three things I encourage you to do:

I. Make Sure You Give Them Something to Continue.

There was a famine in the land, and Isaac was preparing to move, and God spoke to him.

(v. 2) The Lord appeared to Isaac and said, "Do not go down to Egypt, but do as I tell you. Live here as a foreigner in this land, and I will be with you and bless you. I hereby confirm that I will give all these lands to you and your descendants, just as I solemnly promised Abraham, your father. I will cause your descendants to become as numerous as the stars of the sky, and I will give them all these lands. And through your descendants all the nations of the earth will be blessed."

This is basically the same promise God made to Abraham many years before. God continues to say...

(v. 5) "I will do this because Abraham listened to me and obeyed all my requirements, commands, decrees, and instructions."

1. God started something in Abraham's life that he was able to continue in Isaac's life, because Abraham was faithful to God. 

In the same way, God wants to do things in your life that he can continue through the lives of your children. I'm not talking about passing on the family business or making sure that your children follow in your career path. But I am talking about a family tradition, of sorts. A tradition of character, of obedience, of faith, and of service. It's a matter of identity.

2. There's something powerful about being able to say to your sons and daughters: This is who we are; this is the kind of choices we make, this is the type of life we lead.

3. Fathers, make sure you have something of value to pass on to your children. 

Make sure that your life begins something that God can continue in them, just like Abraham's heritage of faith and obedience. 

Here's the second thing I want to you think about...

II. Be Aware, and Help Your Children be Aware, of Your Character Flaws.

Something really interesting happens in chapter 26

(v. 6) So Isaac stayed in Gerar. When the men who lived there asked Isaac about his wife, Rebekkah, he said, "She is my sister." He was afraid to say, "She is my wife." He thought, "They will kill me to get her, because she is so beautiful."

Later, when Abimilech the king found out that Isaac had been dishonest, he was furious.

1. If this story sounds familiar, it's because Abraham pulled the same stunt with his wife, Sarah, years earlier, with the very same king.

Both men did what they did because of cowardice and lack of character. Both men showed a willingness to put their wives in a vulnerable situation in order to prevent putting themselves at risk. And both men were wrong to do it. 

Abraham was a man of God and God used him, but that doesn't mean he was perfect. Isaac was a man of God and God used him, but that doesn't mean he was perfect. The same can be said for Moses and David and Peter and Paul and every other person we meet in Scripture – with the particular exception of Jesus, who was without sin.

2. Here's the unfortunate truth: Your children are likely to pick up some of your bad habits. 

They're likely to inherit some of your character flaws. If they see you do cowardly things, they'll probably resort to cowardice, too. If they see you respond to challenges by losing your temper, they'll probably rant and rave, too, when things don't go their way.

3. Here's the problem: If you could fix your faults, you probably would. If you could just get rid of your fear and worry and anxiety and all your bad habits all at once, you probably would. But you can't because you're not perfect. So your kids will see you fail from time to time. Maybe they'll see you fail big time from time to time.

4. Here's what you can do: You can be completely honest with them about yourself and your faults. You can say, for example, "I struggle with my temper and I hate it. It hurts me in the workplace, it hurts me in my marriage, it isn't good for my health, and it's something I want to change. It's also a problem I want to help you avoid. You can do better than me."

Please understand: I'm not suggesting that you tell your children, "Do as I say, not as I do," – as if your attitude is, "It's never wrong when I do it." That's not what we're talking about at all. 

I'm talking about being transparent with your children about your weaknesses and faults. Imagine if Abraham had said, "Isaac, I brought shame on the family name when I lied to Abimilech, and I treated your mother with disrespect and put her in danger. This is not what a man of honor does. Don't follow my example on this one; learn from my mistakes instead."

Your kids will pick up some of your bad habits and bad qualities. I'm encouraging you to be wise enough to recognize your faults, and be transparent enough to admit them to your children, so that you can help them be strong enough to overcome them.

Here's the third thing I encourage you to do...

III. Make Sure They See You Do Most Things Right.

Towards the end of chapter 26, Isaac had moved to another place, and the Bible says that God appeared to him, and spoke words of comfort and promise to him – similar to what he said in the first part of the chapter. Here's the part I like:

(v. 25) Then Isaac built an altar there and worshiped the Lord.

Why did Isaac decide to build an altar there? Because he had seen or had heard about his own father doing it many many times in the past.

And Abram built an altar there and dedicated it to the Lord. (Genesis 12:7)

Then he built another altar and dedicated it to the Lord, and he worshiped the Lord. (Genesis 12:8)

This was the same place where Abram had built the altar, and there he worshiped the Lord again. (Genesis 13:4)

There he built another altar to the Lord. (Genesis 13:18)

1. Abraham gave his son an example of spirituality to follow. 

Abraham's custom was build an altar at every key moment in life, and to stop and worship the Lord. Isaac knew this. He heard the stories as they were passed down; he witnessed the example first-hand in his father.

2. Men, you're in church today. This is good. You're setting a good example. Do everything you can to build on that example. 

By nature, men tend to be reserved about things of an emotional or personal nature. Our relationship with God is a very personal matter.

But it's necessary. It's necessary for your kids to see examples of your spiritual life. That means coming to church, of course. It also means that they know that you pray, that you worship, that you serve. They're going to see your faults, because you can't hide them. Make sure they see your strengths, also. Make sure they have an example to follow.

The best way to do this is to take them with you.

What I'm saying is: Give your sons and your daughters the opportunity to see your faith in action. Give them a hands-on example to follow. And, it's never too late to start.

CLOSE:

Dads, the truth is that your kids want to be like you. I know that sometimes you might hear the opposite: "I'll never be like my dad!" That's because sometimes we go about things the wrong way.

In order for your kids to have character, you need to have character. Character is hard to develop, as you already know. But if you'll pay the price in your life to become the man you can be, it will be easier for your sons and daughter to pick up your strength and sidestep your weaknesses.

Make it your objective to give your kids an identity to continue. Be transparent with them about your weaknesses, so that they can learn from your mistakes, and overcome them. And give them an example to follow. Share your strengths with them. Make sure they see the good you do. Make sure they know the place God has in your life.

(Dr. Dane Fowlkes)

Study Guide: "When Life Gets You Down, Look Up"

Text: Philippians 1:12-26

OPEN:

At one time or another, all of us find ourselves in situations where nothing seems to be going right. Many of us are facing challenges like that right now. Maybe it's your job, or your marriage, or your financial situation, or your health, or maybe it's all of the above. The good news is that whatever your problems may be, it is possible to face adversity with confidence and boldness. The Bible shows us how in Philippians 1:12-26.

 

Paul wrote Philippians during a time when life had seemingly given him nothing but lemons. He was in jail, living under the threat of death while being separated from the people he cared about. And on top of that, he knew his enemies were celebrating his incarceration. But in spite of this, Philippians is a joyful, optimistic book. Paul has shown us, in the book of Philippians, how to look up when life gets you down. The passage we're looking at today demonstrates Paul's attitude toward problem situations. 

There are three important things to do when life gets you down. The first is to:

 

I. CONSIDER THE BENEFITS

Paul begins this passage by listing all the good things that have happened as a result of his imprisonment. In verse 12 he says this has helped to spread the gospel, in verse 13 he says the brethren have become more confident in speaking the word, and in verses 15-18 he says regardless of people's motives, Christ is being proclaimed.

 

Now, take a look at your problems. Ask yourself, "What are the benefits of this situation?" The benefits may not always be obvious. In fact, they may be hidden, but you will find them if you look for them.

 

Every problem has benefits, we just need to learn to look for them. I will admit that this isn't always easy. Our natural tendency is not the see the positive benefits. Our natural tendency is to see only the problem itself. And the more we look at the problem the bigger it gets, until our perception becomes completely distorted. At this point it is real easy to become side-tracked and lose sight of our priorities. And when you lose sight of your priorities, it is impossible to see the benefits of any problem.

 

Your priorities become distorted when you keep your eyes on the problem. Instead of looking for solutions, we spend our time trying to put out fires.

 

Paul's top priority was the gospel of Jesus Christ. He wasn't concerned with "putting out the fire" of his imprisonment, he was concerned with spreading the fire of the gospel. He didn't complain about the unfair treatment he had received. He didn't ask the Philippian church to start a petition drive demanding his release. He didn't try to organize any protest groups. He wasn't worried at all about the effect his adversity would have on him, he was only thinking about how his imprisonment would impact the spread of Christianity.

 

One benefit of every problem is that it gives you an opportunity to evaluate your priorities. Is your relationship with Jesus Christ more important than anything else in the world? And when your priorities are in order, it is easy to see the other benefits as well.

 

The second thing to do when life gets you down is to:

II. CONSIDER THE LIMITATIONS

If your problems seem insurmountable, you need to change your perspective. There are a few things even the worst problems can't do. They can't separate you from God's love, they can't separate you from God's family, and they can't separate you from God's protection. God is bigger than any problem you will ever face. And God has the ability to turn any problem into an "either way I win" situation. See how Paul puts his adversity in perspective in verse 20-21:

 

It is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be put to shame in any way, but that by my speaking with all boldness, Christ will be exalted now as always in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, living is Christ and dying is gain.

 

Optimism in the face of adversity is simply a matter of perspective. 

 

Finding the limitations of a problem involves changing our perspective. Our problems are not all-powerful; God is all-powerful. Also, in the midst of adversity, you have two things going for you: 

1) the power of prayer, and 

2) the power of the Holy Spirit. 

This is what Paul said in verse 19:

 

...for I know that through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ this will turn out for my deliverance.

 

Think about the problems you are facing right now. What is it that you are focusing on? Do you keep reminding yourself about all the damage this problem can cause? Do you catch yourself saying, "This will be the end of me, I'll be ruined, I'll never be able to bounce back"? Try this: Instead of focusing on all that a problem can do, focus on all that a problem can't do. It can't defeat you. Either way, you win. That's the way God arranged it. 

The third thing to do when life gets you down is to:

III. CONSIDER THE OPPORTUNITIES

You have probably heard that the Chinese word for "crisis" is a compound of two words, "dangerous" and "opportunity". Every problem you face is an opportunity for God to accomplish something in your life. It will most likely involve helping people. Paul recognized this. He had committed his life to helping people grow in the knowledge and grace of Jesus Christ, so prison wasn't an obstacle for him, it was an opportunity to write letters to churches he couldn't visit. I'm sure he didn't know at the time those letters would become Scripture. He was simply motivated by the desire to help people. Look at what he wrote in verses 23-25:

...my desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better; but to remain in the flesh is more necessary for you. Since I am convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with all of you for your progress and joy in faith.

 

Nobody likes living through a crisis. Given a choice, we would choose a less painful path. But one certainty of life is that we will all face adversity at some time or another. The question is how will you use that adversity to help others?

 

Every problem has hidden opportunities for ministry. When we search for the opportunities, the problems become powerless.

 

CLOSE:

When Jesus died, nearly all of his disciples thought all hope was lost. This problem was much too big. They didn't see the Benefits of the problem, that by His death Jesus could take away the sins of the world (John 2:2). They didn't see the Limitations, that death did not have the power to keep him in the grave (1 Corinthians 15:55). And they didn't see the Opportunity, that through the death and resurrection of Christ, salvation could be offered to all who believe on the Lord Jesus Christ.

 

You see, our problems aren't punishment. They are an opportunity for us to experience the power of God in our lives. When life gets you down, look up. God is up to something good on your behalf.

(Dr. Dane Fowlkes)